Sheffield United looking to hijack Dutch international's homecoming

According to The Sun, Sheffield United have made a late offer to Leroy Fer, who had looked set to sign for Feyenoord.

The 29-year-old left Swansea at the end of his contract this summer and the free agent is known to be considering his options ahead of the 2019/20 season.

It had appeared as though Fer would return to the Netherlands with Feyenoord having began his senior career with the club some twelve years ago.

However, newly promoted Sheffield United are prepared to offer the midfielder another chance to play Premier League football for a fourth different club having been relegated with each of the previous three - Norwich, QPR and the Swans.

Fer had been expected to sign for Aston Villa on deadline day in January but the Villans instead agreed a loan deal for teammate Tom Carroll and have shown no interest this summer despite the Dutch international’s availability.

The Dutchman started just 15 of 25 Championship appearances last season, winning 2.7 tackles and 3.1 aerial duels per 90 minutes in the middle ground.